Bee Balm: Lemon (Monarda citriodora)

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0.257$0.25 - $5.60

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With a delightful lemon scent and lavender flowers, this wildflower is a favorite of butterflies and hummingbirds. Stiff, square stems support the tubular and fragrant flowers, and all parts of the plant have a distinct lemony scent when crushed or bruised. Some Monarda species are commonly called bee-balm in reference to a prior use of the leaves as a salve for bee stings. Effective in hummingbird, butterfly, cottage and herb gardens, as well as in native plant areas and prairies. A lovely plant all around!

Attracts Beneficial Insects?: Yes. Bees, Butterflies, and Hummingbirds as well as resisting Deer.

Containers?: Yes. you need a container with adequate drainage for healthy plant growth. Pot up your mint plant with a good potting mix, either a regular commercial type or one with equal amounts of sand, peat, and perlite mixed in.

Garden Uses:Bedding plant, cottage gardens, herb gardens, native plant areas, prairies, roadsides or waste areas. Also effective in hummingbird or butterfly gardens. Leaves may be used to make herbal teas or may be added to pot-pourris.

​STARTING LEMON beebalm SEEDS INDOORS FOR SPRING

​Lemon Beebalm seeds can be started indoors. Sow your seed on the soil surface of your 2" Soil Blocks 8-10 weeks before the last frost date of your area. Your seeds should germinate within 10-20 days.

​​​STARTING LEMON BeeBalm SEEDS OUTDOORS FOR SPRING

When growing beebalm inside, there are a few things necessary for its continual care. One is watering. These plants prefer to be kept moist but not overly wet. If the upper part of soil becomes dry to the touch, then watering is needed. Otherwise, try to keep it evenly moist.

Humidity is another important factor, so mist the plant between watering or set the container on a water-filled tray of pebbles. In addition, you should rotate the plant every three to four days or so to maintain a more even appearance, as plants tend to bend towards the light, becoming somewhat lopsided.

​If desired, you can move your beebalm outdoors for summer, too. While fertilizing isn’t a must with this plant, you can give it an occasional dose of all-purpose, water soluble fertilizer or fish emulsion. Mix the fertilizer at half strength. Don’t over fertilize, as this can cause the herb to lose its flavor.

This is a "cut-and-come-again" plant so you can harvest leaves as they mature. Keep the leaves well watered and cool.

Lemon beebalm has a delicate lemon flavor, and can be used in many dishes. The fresh leaves of the plant can be used eye-catching garnish. The chopped fresh leaves of lemon balm can be tossed into a salad or added to a dish to add a lemony zest to sweet or tangy dishes. It combines well with allspice, bay leaves, mint, pepper, rosemary and thyme.

For best results with cooking with lemon beebalm or any other fresh herbs with essential oils they should be added at the end of cooking. They are less potent if you add them during the cooking process.

Lemon beebalm is a wonderful addition to fruit salads, herb butters, fruit drinks, and sorbets. It can also be used in many egg dishes, custards, a variety of soups and casseroles. It makes a great addition for stuffing for poultry, lamb or pork. Its subtle flavor is a perfect for sauces and marinades for fish. Lemon Beebalm combines well with many spices including chervil, pepper, thyme, and parsley.

Lemon Beebalm is used most often as a medicinal herbal tea. It is also used in herbal and medicinal body care products. Sometimes it is used with other herbs such as St. John's Wort to create a stronger healing salve. It can also be used in an extract or tincture form.

Lemon Beebalm has been used medicinally since the Middle Ages. It is has been used to relieve anxiety, stress and tension since that time and is still used today for those same illnesses. It helps heal naturally.

Anxiety And Lemon Beebalm: Lemon beebalm is a wonderful nerve tonic. It is good on it's own for anxiety and stress, but can also be used in combination with other calming herbs such as valerian, catnip, lavender, or passionflower. When using valerian, you should not use any other sleep inducing medication such as valium. (Do not take our oil or ointment internally.)

For anxiety Lemon beebalm is either given in tea or tincture. A tincture is a concentrated herbal medicine that is made with alcohol. The alcohol draws in the medicinal properties of the lemon beebalm as it is being made, and is a good way to take herbal medicine. You can easily dissipate the alcohol by letting it sit in warm water for a few minutes. This works well for people who have a sensitivity to alcohol, or don't want to use products with alcohol in them.

If a tincture does not suit you, you can certainly use lemon beebalm as a tea. The usual dosage for a cup of herbal tea is 1 tablespoon per one cup (coffee cup) of water. Pour hot water over the herb in the cup. Cover with plate to allow the essential oils of the lemon beebalm to stay in the cup. Strain after 10-15 minutes. Sit back, drink, and enjoy. It is best to take 3-4 cups per day for 2 weeks to allow the lemon beebalm to take effect.

Herpes / Cold Sores:All natural lemon beebalm ointmentIn studies, it has been shown to have polyphenols. The polyphenols give beebalm fantastic antiviral actions. In particular, they help to combat and heal cold sores due to the herpes simples virus (HSV). Applied to the affected area, it helps heal cold the sores in about 3-5 days. It also helps double the time between outbreaks.

Lemon beebalm that is used on herpes cold sores is usually found in either an oil or an ointment. The leaves of the plant are steeped in a carrier oil (such as almond, apricot, or olive) for 4-6 weeks. The oil absorbs the medicinal actions of the lemon beebalm. It is then strained and either used as lemon beebalm oil or ointment. It is a popular herbal ointment for herpes.

Lemon beebalm is also useful on chicken pox and shingles. Both chicken pox and shingles are the same virus as herpes. Used topically, it will help heal the sores of chicken pox and shingles much quicker than on their own.

Flu with Muscle Aches and Pains:Due to its antispasmodic and relaxant actions lemon beebalm can come in quite handy when a flu hits with muscle aches and pains. It will help relax the body, and the antispasmodic action will help with any muscular spasms. Lemon beebalm increases sweating, and could help in the case of a fever. By making the body sweat, the toxins are driven out of the body through the pores. It can be used at the first sign of flu for best results.

Nausea and Stomach Problems:Lemon beebalm as a tea is a carminative, and therefore can be used to help settle a nauseous stomach. It will help relieve digestive gas and also help with indigestion. (Do not take oil or ointment internally.)

Aromatherapy:Lemon beebalm essential oil is very popular in aromatherapy and body care products. It has a calming and soothing slight lemony scent.

Caution:Lemon beebalm should be avoided by those on thyroid medication as it is believed that the herb inhibits the absorption of this medicine. Contact Cloverleaf Farm for an alternative.​​

Project Purity Seeds can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.

Hummingbird Garden Plants:Bee balm attracts hummingbirds with its red and pink blossoms and its tubular flowers that are naturally suited for a hummingbird's long beak. Other similar flowers include Western columbine (Aquilegia formosa), with red and yellow flowers, or silver sage (Salvia argentea), with white flowers tinged with red. Both companions also thrive in full sun or partial shade in USDA plant hardiness zones 5b through 10b.

Herbs:As a member of the mint family, bee balm leaves have a minty smell and make a pleasant, herbal tea. Bee balm adds color and height to an herb garden and should be planted near the center of the garden surrounded by your preference of shorter herbs grown as annuals, such as basil, thyme, chives and parsley. Add a perennial herb such as rosemary in USDA plant hardiness zones 7a through 11 for year-round interest in the garden bed.

Colors:Also grown in full sun in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 11, bright yellow daylilies would work well planted in the same garden bed with the warm colors of bee balm. For a contrasting accent, midnight blue agapanthus (Agapanthus x "Monmid") adds the cool-blue color in USDA plant hardiness zones 7b through 11.

Shapes:As a 6- to 8-inch ground cover growing around the base of bee balm, the light green leaves and multiple flowers of dwarf annual phlox (Phlox drummondii) thrive in USDA plant hardiness zones 5a through 11 and come in a variety of colors. The blue-gray leaves of the perennial blue oat grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens) contrast nicely in both shape and color with bee balm. Blue oat grass thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones 5b through 10b.​

Suggested Varieties

Polka Dot Plant: Pink (Hypoestes phyllostachya)

$0.50 - $5.60

This 8-12" pink variegated beauty is one of the easiest to manage shade plants or house plants you will ever come across! It's attractive foliage is best displayed outdoors in the shade as an annual, or indoors or greenhouses as a perennial. It is also great as a border or in containers.

Celosia: Flamingo (C. argentea var. spicata)

$0.50 - $5.60

Summer annual (zones 3-8), or short-lived perennial (zones 9-11) grown as an ornamental for its distinctive, erect flower spikes sort of reminiscent of a sheaf of wheat that give it the common name of wheat celosia. It is also used as a leaf vegetable in tropical Africa, East and Southeast Asia and other places for the soft texture and mild spinach-like taste of the foliage.

Strawflower (Helichrysum bracteatum)

$0.25 - $5.60

The original strawflower comes from Australia, where it still grows wild as a native species. The first botanical records of the strawflower date back to 1803, with the publication of a work called Jardin de Malmaison. this book, a catalog of the species grown at the Chateau de Malmaison, was completed by French botanist Etienne Pierre Ventenat at the request of Napoleon's wife Josephine, who had an avid interest in rare plants. Hybrid forms of this flower first became popular in mid 19th century Europe as a result of the horticultural research of expert botanist Herren Ebritsch.

Milkweed: Swamp (Asclepias incarnata)

$0.25 - $5.60

As the name indicates, these swamp milkweed seeds for sale thrive in swamps and low meadows or along streams. The bright pink flowers attract swarms of bees and butterflies, and have a sweet scent described as similar to vanilla or cinnamon. At one time, the silk from swamp milkweed seed pods was spun for fabric or used for stuffing pillows; in World War II, school children gathered the silk to provide a cheap filling for soldiers' life jackets. Commercial attempts to make use of this abundant plant included the manufacture of paper, fabric, lubricant, fuel, and rubber; eventually these became impractical and were abandoned. Though this plant is toxic to most animals, butterflies are immune to the plant's poison and actually become rather poisonous themselves as protection from predators.

Catchfly: Nodding (Silene pendula)

$0.25 - $5.60

Because of its sticky stem that can entrap tiny insects, this family of plants earned the common name Catchfly. Since many plants in this species produce a saliva-like substance, the genus name "Silene" is derived from Silenus, a mythical Greek character known for being covered with foam. The species name "pendula" comes from the Latin word for "hanging down," referring to the drooping habit of the flowers. This variety originates in Europe and is rarely seen in the United States!

Zinnia: Exquisite (Zinnia elegans)

$1.00 - $5.60

A unique and colorful Zinnia that offers a range of shades. Exquisite Zinnia is an easy to grow annual that blooms bright red and fades to soft rose pink as the blooms age. Definitely a favorite of gardeners, florists, or anyone who loves cut flowers.

Zinnia: Benary's Giant Carmine Rose (Zinnia elegans)

$1.00 - $5.60

​​Benary's Giant Carmine Rose Zinnia are an easy to grow flower that are perfect for gardeners and garden centers who love and deal in cut flowers! They are mostly grown for cut flowers because of their stunning, huge 4-6" bright double blossoms and thick stems. If you are looking for a cut flower that has a tolerance to diseases and last longer in a vase then this one is it!

Balsam: Camilia Flowered Mix (Impatiens balsamina)

$0.50 - $5.60

This old fashioned cousin of the garden impatiens originates in the southeastern regions of Asia. Its genus name Impatiens comes from its "impatient" habit of exploding its seeds from their pods at the slightest touch. Dr. John Kirk, chief medical officer and expert botanist on numerous exploratory journeys led by Dr. Livingston, introduced this plant to his homeland. Victorian gardeners often included it in their flowerbeds, but the appearance of more showy hybrid varieties soon overshadowed the modest beauty of this species.

Poppy, Peony: Red (Papaver Paeoniflorum)

$0.50 - $5.60

Grown as an annual flowering plant, the Red Peony Poppy will grow quickly from freshly harvested flower seeds, bloom in the late spring to early summer, later wilting with the arrival of winter. The seed pods, once dried can be cut, for use in floral arrangements and bouquets. The seeds can also fall to the bare ground beneath, establishing new plants the following growing season.

Poppy, Peony: Pale Rose (Papaver Paeoniflorum)

$0.50 - $5.60

When it comes to delightful displays in your summer garden, Pale Rose Peony Poppy is the perfect choice! Not only do they make your garden look great with their showy 4" pale rose double flower blooms and blue-green foliage, but you can cut them and enjoy them in beautiful arrangements indoors.

Poppy, Peony: Salmon (Papaver Paeoniflorum)

$0.50 - $5.60

​Grown as an annual flowering plant, the Salmon Peony Poppy will grow quickly from freshly harvested flower seeds, bloom in the late spring to early summer, later wilting with the arrival of winter. The seed pods, once dried can be cut, for use in floral arrangements and bouquets. The seeds can also fall to the bare ground beneath, establishing new plants the following growing season.

Poppy, California: Carmine King (Eschscholzia californica)

$0.25 - $5.60

These poppies have a habit of opening and closing with the sun, appropriate for their native Golden State. The first member of the California poppy genus was identified in 1816 by German botanist Adelbert von Chamisso on an exploratory voyage to California and the Pacific Northwest. Chamisso named this genus “Eschscholzia” after a fellow botanist, Johann Friedrich von Eschscholtz, who accompanied him on the journey. Nearly a dozen species of poppy grow wild in the western United States.

Poppy, California: Red Chief (Eschscholzia californica)

$0.25 - $5.60

These poppies have a habit of opening and closing with the sun, appropriate for their native Golden State. The first member of the California poppy genus was identified in 1816 by German botanist Adelbert von Chamisso on an exploratory voyage to California and the Pacific Northwest. Chamisso named this genus “Eschscholzia” after a fellow botanist, Johann Friedrich von Eschscholtz, who accompanied him on the journey. Nearly a dozen species of poppy grow wild in the western United States.

Bergamot: Wild (Monarda fistulosa)

$0.25 - $5.60

Butterfly attracting premier! Bursting with lavender heads of flowers, this popular perennial wildflower puts on a beautiful show! Medium to tall in height, this plant looks great planted en masse, or with other meadow dwellers. Its sweetly aromatic foliage makes it even more desirable. A classic!

Purslane: Rock (Calandrinia Umbellata)

$0.50 - $5.60

An easy and fast growing member of the portulacae family with succulent leaves forming a dense crown below sprays of stunning bright magenta blooms throughout the warmer months. Also known as "Rock Purslane" or Purple Moon" this is an ideal plant for poor dry sites where little else will grow. Soundly perennial though often treated as an annual in cold , frosty climates.

Four O' Clock: Rose (Mirabilis jalapa)

$1.00 - $5.60

This old garden favorite produces fragrant two-inch funnel-shaped blossoms. This variety is a lovely rose color. As their common name suggests, they open in late afternoon and bloom until the next morning. The showy blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies. An interesting quality is the color variations. There may be flowers of different colors, or with spots and stripes of another color, all on the same plant. This tender perennial is commonly grown as an annual, though the tuberous root may be dug up in the fall and stored over the winter. Re-plant it after danger of frost in the spring, and the plant will flower even better when replanted from established roots.

Four O' Clocks: Red (Mirabilis jalapa)

$1.00 - $5.60

Named for its characteristic of blooming after 4pm, four o’clock flourishes almost anywhere including hot, windy spots. Excellent as an annual hedge. Perennial in USDA zones 9–11, otherwise grown as an annual. Reseeds freely. Wonderful in barrels, tubs, or other large containers. Drought tolerant. Deer resistant.

Columbine: Wild (Aquilegia canadensis)

$0.50 - $5.60

The name “columbine” is derived from the Latin “columba,” or dove, since an upside down columbine bloom looks like a circle of doves around a fountain. The Latin genus name “Aquilegia” means “eagle,” a reference to the spikes on the back of the flower that resemble an eagle’s talons. These unique hollow spurs on the blossoms contain an abundance of nectar, though only hummingbirds and other long-tongued feeders such as the hawk moth can reach it. Ruby-throated hummingbirds especially love this plant. Its natural habitats are woodland areas, rocky slopes, or along streams. A native wildflower, columbine has thrived in both America and Europe since the 1600s; in medieval times, these flowers symbolized foolishness because of their resemblance to a court jester’s slippers. Native Americans used this plant medicinally to treat various complaints such as poison ivy rash, heart trouble, or fever; they also crushed the seeds to obtain a pleasing perfume.

Bee Plant: Rocky Mountain (Cleome serrulata)

$0.25 - $5.60

Rocky Mountain Bee Plant appears in the records of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, being discovered growing on the open prairie by Meriwether Lewis on August 25, 1804. Lewis entrusted his collection of flower species to botanist Frederick Traugott Pursh, who officially classified Cleome serrulata in 1817. In his diary, Lewis observes that the Native Americans would grind the seeds of this plant into flour, as well as boiling the rest of the plant for eating. This plant played an important part in the culture of many Native American tribes, being used for making dye for blankets and pottery as well as having numerous medicinal purposes.

Zinnia: Cherry Queen (Zinnia elegans)

$0.25 - $5.60

Beautiful big red blossoms grow on three-foot high plants. Zinnias are easy to grow, and bloom quickly to fill your garden or patio with color all summer. They'll keep blooming all through a hot season, and make wonderful cut flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will be attracted to them too.

Cornflower: Tall Pink (Centaurea cyanus)

$0.25 - $5.60

These bright blossoms once grew wild in the fields of the United Kingdom and southern Europe, though they have become very rare in recent times because of the changing landscape and new farming techniques. This species was first recorded for botanical records in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus. While the genus name “Centaurea” comes from Greek mythology, the common name of Bachelor’s Button comes from the tradition of young men wearing the flower as a sign of love. They were also called cornflowers because of their abundant growth in farmers’ fields. At one time the blossoms were made into a temporary dye most often used for tinting frosting, sugar, or candies.

Yarrow: Red (Achillea millefolium rubra)

$0.25 - $5.60

Native to Southern Europe, yarrow has been a traditional part of herb gardens for hundreds of years because of its fragrant foliage and cheerful, long lasting flowers. Yarrow can often be found in fields, along roads, or on rocky hillsides. Linnaeus named it for Greek general Achilles, who according to legend received yarrow as a gift from the gods; the general’s soldiers used yarrow to stanch the flow of their blood in the battlefields of the Trojan War. In the early days of the American prairies, Native American tribes such as the Pawnee, Cherokee, and Chippewa used common yarrow to relieve pain and headaches, reduce fever, and induce sleep. When taken internally as a tea, yarrow purifies the system and has anti-inflammatory benefits. Cosmetic preparations sometimes include yarrow because of its cleansing, refreshing effect. Medicinal use of yarrow is not recommended for expectant mothers.

Clover: Crimson (Trifolium incarnatum)

$0.25 - $5.60

Most commonly known as crimson clover, this wildflower is also called Italian or French clover in reference to it's nativity to Europe. This annual species blooms in a strawberry red, and it's delightful fragrance attracts bees by the score! A non-invasive, annual species of clover, it is often used as a cover-crop. In southern climates, plant it during your off-season, and watch the amazing results of this rich, nitrogen producing plant! The earthworms love it! Also a protein-rich forage crop for cattle and livestock, this gem of a wildflower is indispensable!

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

$0.50 - $5.60

Foxglove grows as a wildflower in Great Britain and throughout Europe, and can be found in records dating back to the time of Edward III of England. Historically, its common name was “Folksglove” in reference to the little folk, or fairies; these flowers often grew in the deep dells and glades of the forest where the fairies were said to live. One legend states that naughty sprites would give the fox the blossoms of this plant to wear on his feet, to quiet his step among the farmyards. Dr. William Withering first brought foxglove to the attention of the medical world in 1785, detailing its use in an important document that helped begin the modern pharmacology movement. This plant produces digitoxin, a substance included in the heart stimulating drug digitalis. The name Digitalis, also the genus name of the species, comes from the Latin word for finger and refers to the shape of the foxglove blossom.

Sage: Scarlet (Salvia coccinea)

$0.25 - $5.60

Closely related to the Red Salvia, this wildflower is somewhat less formal, and tends to look most becoming in natural wild gardens. The spikes of the fire-engine red flowers add great color and interest to a meadow, while attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. This carefree annual is the only native sage to have red flowers!

Penstemon: Palmer's (Penstemon palmeri)

$0.25 - $5.60

This Beardtongue was named after the British botanist Edward Palmer, and is found native to desert mountains from easter Mojave to Utah and in New Mexico. Growing in washes, roadsides, canyon floors, and other similar areas, this plant is a tough, drought and heat resistant species. This wildflower is most notable for it's tall spikes of showy light pink blooms. Favored by bumblebees who like to squeeze themselves into the bulbous throats of the flowers!

Cosmos: Radiance (Cosmos bipinnatus)

$0.25 - $5.60

Because of their Mexican heritage, these bright annuals meet high heat and drought conditions with native beauty and vigor. Spanish conquistadors searching for gold discovered these flowers on their journeys through Mexico. Mission gardens often included these flowers, which priests gave the name “cosmos,” the Greek word for a harmonious whole, because of their neatly spaced petals. Cosmos flowers made their way to England with Spanish ambassadors in the late 18th century, and to the United States in the following century.

Zinnia: Luminosa (Zinnia elegans)

$0.25 - $5.60

These big 4-5 inch blooms are bright pink. Zinnias are easy to grow, and bloom quickly to fill your garden or patio with color all summer. They'll keep blooming all through a hot season, and make wonderful cut flowers. Butterflies and hummingbirds will be attracted to them too.

Poppy: Red (Papaver rhoeas)

$0.25 - $5.60

Probably the world's most popular wildflower, the red poppy has crept it's way into Canadian Currency, largely due to it's association with Remembrance Day in commonwealth countries. The four petals are vivid red, most commonly with a black spot at their base. They are also found in a broad mixture of colors, including pink, white, orange, and bi-colored. The plant is also edible, the seeds being used for baking and as a condiment, the red petals for a special syrup, and the fresh green parts as a vegetable!

Baby's Breath: Deep Carmine (Gypsophila elegans)

$0.50 - $5.60

This dainty flower has become well-known for its role in the florists’ industry as a filler in bouquets. Originally it grew as a wildflower across much of Europe and Asia, and was introduced to the States in the late 19th century as a popular addition to flower gardens. The genus name Gypsophila means “lover of chalk,” referring to the type of light, alkaline soil that this plant prefers.

Cosmos: Candy Stripe (Cosmos bipinnatus)

$0.25 - $5.60

Because of their Mexican heritage, these bright annuals meet high heat and drought conditions with native beauty and vigor. Spanish conquistadors searching for gold discovered these flowers on their journeys through Mexico. Mission gardens often included these flowers, which priests gave the name “cosmos,” the Greek word for a harmonious whole, because of their neatly spaced petals. Cosmos flowers made their way to England with Spanish ambassadors in the late 18th century, and to the United States in the following century.

Basil: Purple Ruffles (Ocimum basilicum)

$0.25 - $5.60

Ted Torrey, once the director of the Vegetable Research at the W. Atlee Burpee & Company, developed the Purple Ruffles variety of basil. This cross between Green Ruffles and Dark Opal varieties of basil was first released in 1984, and won the AAS Award in 1987.

Basil: Sweet (Ocimum basilicum)

$0.25 - $5.60

Native to India and ancient Persia, basil has a long history as one of the most revered of herbs. Ancient legends give basil a strong religious connection, stating that it possesses healing powers. In many cultures basil is a symbol of love, and given as a token of affection or engagement; other meanings include protection and truth. In Greek and Roman cultures, however, basil represented hate and misfortune; because of this, gardeners would often shout abuses at their plants to help them grow. It seems that no one could agree on the properties of basil, with divided opinions on whether it had medical benefits or whether it contained poison. Since English royalty preferred basil and used it for both culinary and cosmetic purposes, chefs sometimes call it "the king of herbs." In addition to being popular with the ruling class, basil was commonly used throughout England and loved for its scent; many people included it in their gardens, added it to their bouquets, and used it to freshen the air in their houses. Medicinally, oil of basil is often used in treatments as diverse as depression and anxiety, the common cold, a cough or sore throat, or insect bites and stings. Medicinal doses of basil are unsafe for pregnant women, though culinary use is fine.

Basil: Lemon (Ocimum basilicum)

$0.25 - $5.60

Lemon basil comes from a cross between African basil and common basil, and is widely grown in northeastern Africa and southern Asia. Popular for its strong lemon scent, lemon basil is often found in Lao, Persian, Arabian, Indonesian and Thai cuisine. Native to India and ancient Persia, basil has a long history as one of the most revered of herbs. Ancient legends give basil a strong religious connection, stating that it possesses healing powers. In many cultures basil is a symbol of love, and given as a token of affection or engagement; other meanings include protection and truth. In Greek and Roman cultures, however, basil represented hate and misfortune; because of this, gardeners would often shout abuses at their plants to help them grow. It seems that no one could agree on the properties of basil, with divided opinions on whether it had medical benefits or whether it contained poison. Since English royalty preferred basil and used it for both culinary and cosmetic purposes, chefs sometimes call it "the king of herbs." In addition to being popular with the ruling class, basil was commonly used throughout England and loved for its scent; many people included it in their gardens, added it to their bouquets, and used it to freshen the air in their houses. Medicinally, oil of basil is often used in treatments as diverse as depression and anxiety, the common cold, a cough or sore throat, or insect bites and stings. Medicinal doses of basil are unsafe for pregnant women, though culinary use is fine.

Basil: Italian Large Leaf (Ocimum basilicum)

$0.25 - $5.60

Chefs in the Neapolitan region of Italy regard this variety of sweet, Genovese-type basil as the essential type of basil for their traditional cuisine. Native to India and ancient Persia, basil has a long history as one of the most revered of herbs. Ancient legends give basil a strong religious connection, stating that it possesses healing powers. In many cultures basil is a symbol of love, and given as a token of affection or engagement; other meanings include protection and truth. In Greek and Roman cultures, however, basil represented hate and misfortune; because of this, gardeners would often shout abuses at their plants to help them grow. It seems that no one could agree on the properties of basil, with divided opinions on whether it had medical benefits or whether it contained poison. Since English royalty preferred basil and used it for both culinary and cosmetic purposes, chefs sometimes call it "the king of herbs." In addition to being popular with the ruling class, basil was commonly used throughout England and loved for its scent; many people included it in their gardens, added it to their bouquets, and used it to freshen the air in their houses. Medicinally, oil of basil is often used in treatments as diverse as depression and anxiety, the common cold, a cough or sore throat, or insect bites and stings. Medicinal doses of basil are unsafe for pregnant women, though culinary use is fine.

Basil: Spicy Bush (Ocimum basilicum var. minimum)

$0.25 - $5.60

Definitely one of the best looking basils around, Spicy Bush Basil is a must have! It not only looks good being a petite ornamental bush with small ¾” shiny leaves, but it is also very aromatic and taste fantastic in salads, pesto and much more! This fine herb will grow practically anywhere from rock gardens, herb beds, to container gardening.

Thyme: Common (Thymus vulgaris)

$0.25 - $5.60

Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean, thyme has a well established reputation for providing healing and protection; it also symbolizes courage, bravery, and strength. For centuries, soldiers would wear or carry sprigs of thyme with them to battle with the belief that the herb would protect them from danger. For culinary use, it is most often paired with lamb, poultry, or lemon; thyme makes one of the finest flavors of honey, and the plant attracts many bees. Medieval herbalists treated poisonous stings or bites with this herb, or burned it to purify the air. During the time of the Black Death, thyme became a major ingredient in many treatments for the disease. Whether or not it actually performed a cure, recent research confirms that thyme contains a very powerful antiseptic that may have medical benefits; records show several instances of thyme syrup completely curing whooping cough within a week. Though culinary use is fine, pregnant women should not take medicinal doses of thyme.

Thyme: Creeping (Thymus serpyllum)

$0.25 - $5.60

This plant is widely known as an herb. Thyme is the source of the oil Serpolet, which is used in herbal medicine. The plant is also often used as a food seasoning and the dried leaves may be used to make tea! This low growing plant with creeping, woody foliage bears small, lavender colored flower during the months of June and July. The hardy plant tolerates some pedestrian traffic and produces odors ranging from heavily herbal to lightly lemon, depending on the plant!

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

$0.25 - $5.60

Rosemary, whose Latin name means "dew of the sea," is native to the rocky slopes of the Mediterranean coast. Because it traditionally symbolizes happiness, protection, and love, medieval brides often wore rosemary or carried it in their bouquets. Legend has it that the flowers of rosemary, originally white, obtained their heavenly blue color from the cloak of the virgin Mary in her flight to Egypt. Rosemary is often grown for topiaries and hedges, in addition to being used for making fragrant garlands and wreaths. When used medicinally or for aromatherapy, rosemary gives relief from headaches, tension, depression, or fatigue; externally, oil of rosemary makes an excellent addition to massage oil for rheumatism or aching joints. This herb gained an early medicinal reputation for improving memory and uplifting spirits. Medicinal doses are not safe for pregnant women, but normal culinary use is fine.

Canterbury Bells: Blue (Campanula medium)

$0.25 - $5.60

An old-fashioned biennial. Canterbury Bells form a low rosette of green leaves and upright stems that bear loads of large blue dangling bells. Stems are superb for cutting. Allow some plants to self seed, which will produce another generation for future years.

Morning Glory: Heavenly Blue (Ipomea tricolor)

$0.50 - $5.60

Classic "Heavenly Blue" morning glories are a special favorite of gardeners, and won the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Morning glory flowers open with the morning sun and close when it sets. Though each flower only lasts for one day, their abundance and beauty have made them a garden favorite for centuries. Early Japanese and Chinese cultures especially valued this plant for its aesthetic and medicinal qualities. According to historical research, ancient peoples of Mexico and South America also used the sticky liquid of the morning glory vines as a crucial ingredient in the production of latex.

Cornflower: Dwarf Blue (Centaurea cyanus)

$0.25 - $5.60

These bright blossoms once grew wild in the fields of the United Kingdom and southern Europe, though they have become very rare in recent times because of the changing landscape and new farming techniques. This species was first recorded for botanical records in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus. While the genus name “Centaurea” comes from Greek mythology, the common name of Bachelor’s Button comes from the tradition of young men wearing the flower as a sign of love. They were also called cornflowers because of their abundant growth in farmers’ fields. At one time the blue blossoms were made into a temporary dye most often used for tinting frosting, sugar, or candies.

Sage: Kitchen (Salvia officinalis)

$0.25 - $5.60

A plant with a variety of uses! May be grown for the beauty of its violet blossoms, or used as an herb in the kitchen! Kitchen Sage has a peppery flavor and has been used to flavor food, especially meats and cheeses. Sage is also used in the field of medicine, and has been recommended for many ailments, including the management of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease!

Lupine: Sky (Lupinus nanus)

$0.50 - $5.60

This wildflower was first found near the Columbia River and described in 1828 by Scotsman David Douglas, the first botanist to methodically find and classify over 250 plants in the northwestern region of the United States.The name Lupine comes from the Latin “lupus,” meaning wolf. This refers to the folk belief that this plant took nutrients from the soil. Ironically, this plant actually improves the soil because of its nitrogen fixing abilities.

Camass: Blue (Camassia quamash)

$0.50 - $5.60

According to botanist Leslie Haskin, “There is more romance and adventure clustered about the camas root and flower than about almost any other American plant.” Because of its edible bulbs, this plant was a culinary delicacy for Native Americans and early settlers. Traditionally, the bulbs were cooked slowly for several days to achieve a sweet, nutty flavor. They could also be dried and ground for flour or boiled down to a sweet syrup. Meriwether Lewis discovered this plant growing in the Quamash flats near the foot of the Rocky Mountains, and documented his find on June 23, 1806 of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In his diary, he records that Blue Camass in bloom "resembles lakes of fine clear water, so complete in the deception that on first sight I could have sworn it was water."

Sage: Blue (Salvia farinacea)

$0.25 - $5.60

Sage Blue Salvia Farinacea grows as a sub-shrub perennial in warmer climates and as an annual where winter temperatures stay below freezing for more than a few hours at a time. Also commonly called Mealy Cup Sage, Salvia Farinacea features silver-green foliage with long, toothed leaves and produces multiple spikes of showy, about an inch long, bright blue flowers that are arranged in loose whorls along the upright stems. Mealy Cup Sage blooms over a long season starting in spring. The showy, fragrant Blue Sage flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Penstemon: Rocky Mountain (Penstemon strictus)

$0.25 - $5.60

Hardy, drought tolerant, and stunningly beautiful, what more could you want? Rich indigo blooms tower high on this Beardtongue, and are loved by hummingbirds and bees. Rocky Mountain Penstemon is one of the easiest Beardtongues to grow, and has a long blooming period of about a month in the Spring. A real show stopper!

Cornflower: Tall Blue (Centaurea cyanus)

$0.25 - $5.60

These bright blossoms once grew wild in the fields of the United Kingdom and southern Europe, though they have become very rare in recent times because of the changing landscape and new farming techniques. This species was first recorded for botanical records in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus. While the genus name “Centaurea” comes from Greek mythology, the common name of Bachelor’s Button comes from the tradition of young men wearing the flower as a sign of love. They were also called cornflowers because of their abundant growth in farmers’ fields. At one time the blue blossoms were made into a temporary dye most often used for tinting frosting, sugar, or candies.

Borage: Blue (Borago officinalis)

$0.25 - $5.60

The borage herb is an old fashioned plant that can get up to 2 feet or more. It is native to the Middle East and has an ancient history in war as an enhancement for bravery and courage. Growing borage provides the gardener with cucumber-flavored leaves for tea and other beverages as well as bright starry blue flowers for decorating salads. All parts of the plant, except the roots, are flavorful and have culinary or medicinal uses.